Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku)
Women's nature connection facilitation
Why Forest Bathing?
Also known as forest therapy or shinrin-yoku, forest bathing is the practice of taking in the atmosphere of a forest or other natural environment through all of one's senses. For more detailed information and FAQ's, see this page.
Research has revealed numerous health benefits to this practice, some of which include:
Less Stress
Park et al (2007) show that shinrin-yoku lowers the level of the stress hormone cortisol and aids relaxation.
Improved Mood
Yu et al (2017) find that a short forest bathing walk elevated positive emotions and decreased emotions such as anxiety, anger and confusion among middle-aged and elderly participants.
Learn more
Research into the beneficial effects of nature is growing. If you want to find out more, the ANFT is a good place to start.
Stronger immunity
Li (2008) found that participants in a 3-day shinrin-yoku trip displayed higher levels of NK cells (disease fighting cells in the body) which lasted more than 30 days after the trip.
More Creativity
Atchley & Strayer (2012) found that a 4-day nature immersion among a group of hikers improved performance at a creative, problem-solving task by as much as 50%,
A holistic practice
Forest bathing is best seen as a wellness practice, not a once-off event.
Taking part in forest bathing should not be seen as a substitute for professional medical care - please consult your physician.
Meet Your Guide
Carike Claassen
ANFT Certified Forest Therapy Guide
I believe that long, slow walks can change lives. As a certified forest therapy guide, I facilitate such walks. On a guided walk with me, you’re invited to slow down, and instead of achieving anything in particular … just be.
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I approach this practice from two perspectives:
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From time to time, I offer public walks focused on general relaxation and wellbeing for men and women.
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For the most part however, I work one-on-one or in small private groups with women who wish to delve a bit deeper into the practice. To do this, I draw on a combination of forest therapy techniques, and tools gathered from my Playing Big facilitator’s training with Tara Mohr in the United States.
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My love affair with long walks began as a child, when my father would often take me out on day hikes. Some of the long walks I have completed since then include the Amatola Trail, the Tankwa Camino, and figuring out that I really wanted to be a forest therapy guide when I grew up.
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I hope that you and I will walk together soon!